Headlight Switch Question

[MSheff]

I am looking to replace the headlight switch on my '86. Looking at Rock Auto and there is the option of with or W/O VISIBILITY LIGHT GROUP. Anybody know what the Visibility Light Group is?

[MikeFleming]

The two types are with and without fog lights. You want the 9-pin one WITH fog lights.

Don't know what "visibility group" means, but I would select that one.

While you're in there, get a replacement/repair 9-pin headlight switch pigtail. The harness is usually melted along with the switch.

[MSheff]

Ok, sounds good to me. Maybe "visibility group" is fog lights. Nice call on the headlight switch pigtail. Here is a picture of mine, brittle and broken as it is. So, what I was doing is the opposite of what you suggested. I was replacing the pigtail and while I was there, going to replace the switch. Thanks for the input!
9042

[DaveS]

I went through the same thing on my SVO recently. I was able to pull the wires from the old plastic connector and install them in the new plastic connector; my problem was solved.
I didn't replace the switch or have to do any wiring. My plastic connector looked a lot like the one in your picture.
I did take a minute to clean the switch when I did the replacement; contact cleaner is a wonderful thing!

[MSheff]

Thanks Dave. Just got the new plastic connector yesterday. I was thinking I could pull and reinsert the wires into the new one, but haven't looked at it that close yet. Good to know that is possible. I might just go with the contact cleaner as well. My switch is working, I just thought while i was there, it might be a good time to replace. Thanks for the input!

[Meotchh]

It is easy to remove the pins, or rather sockets in this case, without damaging them. With your older eyes use a magnifying glass & a good bright light. You can buy the correct tool, or you can save a few bucks & just use a pick or scribe to push the release tab & pull on the wire. As bad as that plug is, there should be at least 2 pins that pull out with no tools.

[Srt6]

Where do you get the plastic connector piece?

[MikeFleming]

Where do you get the plastic connector piece? Search for Ford headlight switch pigtail, w/fog, 9-pin. Wiring accessories, repair.

I think I have a spare in the shop somewhere. May have a part number on it.

[Meotchh]

Where do you get the plastic connector piece?

http://www.svocop.com/Articles/links.html

http://www.svocop.com/Articles/FordWiringPigtailsCatalog.pdf (http://www.svocop.com/Articles/FordWiringPigtailsCatalog.pdf)

http://www.clipsandfasteners.com/Ford_Clips_And_Fasteners_s/63.htm?searching=Y&sort=13&cat=63&show=450&page=1